Craft Fair of Southern Highlands this week!
July 16, 2013
I can speak for all of us at HandMade in America (HIA) when I say that we are very excited to represent at this year’s Craft Fair of Southern Highlands. For four days every July and October the US Cellular Center is packed full of fine crafts from over 200 craft artists, selling their works of clay, fiber, glass, metal, and more. Staff and volunteers of HandMade in America will be at a table to share our latest and greatest news, events, and programs. This will be our first time representing at the Craft Fair of Southern Highlands.
Did you know that the Southern Highlands Craft Guild was chartered in 1930? The Guild was created in response to the Great Depression as a way to help craftspeople and generate revenue in the Appalachian regions. Fast forward 83 years, and the Guild is made up of almost 1,000 craftspeople from 293 counties, spanning 9 states! They keep busy with many different educational programs, demonstrations, an entire library, 5 craft shops, and 2 of the most highly recognized craft fairs held every year.
The first Craft Fair of Southern Highlands was in 1948 in Gatlinburg, TN. It wasn’t until a few years later, in 1951 that they moved the Fair to Asheville, NC. Back in those days the Fair was a full week-long event that lasted until 10:00 pm every night! It’s hard to believe that people would’ve been more serious about craft 60 years ago than they are today. Deb Schillo, Southern Highlands Craft Guild Archivist, explained that back in those days there would be people in lines extending far beyond of the doors to the Fair. That was one reason the Guild added a second craft fair in the fall of 1960. They have been offering two craft fairs per year ever since.
Looking for something fun to do July 18th-21st? Come down this week to US Cellular Center in Asheville, NC to see craft artistry represent this amazing Southern Highland region that is so rich in craft and culture. Oh, and say hi to us at HandMade in America too!
Lindsey Mudge,
Operations Manager
HandMade in America
828-252-0121 x303
Craft Fair of Southern Highlands
Dates/Times: July 18th-21st
Thursday-Saturday 10am-6pm
Sunday 10am-5pm
Location: U.S. Cellular Center
87 Haywood St. Asheville, NC
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